title: Fit-testing hearing protectors: an idea whose time has come.
abstract: The performance of hearing protection devices (HPD) worn by individual workers in specific noise-exposure environments has been difficult to assess using the hearing protector ratings printed on HPD packages. Because the role of the HPD in prevention of hearing loss remains as a vital last line of defense against the effects of noise exposure, proper assessment of their performance is increasingly critical. HPD fit-testing procedures now allow the individual fit-testing of HPD to assist in appropriate selection of HPD for individual workers, to aid in training workers on proper use of HPDs, and a range of other applications. Understanding these technologies, their strengths and weaknesses, and appropriate application of the results of fit-testing may enable employers to make improvements in their hearing loss prevention program performance.
authors.affiliation: Hearing Loss Prevention Consultant, 3M Occupational Health and Environmental Safety Division, IN, USA. leehager@cablespeed.com
authors.forename: Lee D
authors.initials: LD
authors.lastname: Hager
mesh_terms: D004430:Ear Protective Devices; D006317:Hearing Loss, Noise-Induced / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D009623:Noise, Occupational / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D017755:Prosthesis Fitting